Naturalisation records

Why did migrants apply to be naturalised?

The call for migrants to the Australian colonies saw an influx of people from a number of European and Asian countries. However, non-British migrants did not have the same rights and privileges as British settlers.

Before 1849, aliens could only be naturalised by a special Act of Parliament. However, between 1834 and 1848, letters of denization were granted allowing aliens to enjoy some of the rights of a natural born British subject.

No letters of denization were issued after 1848, and legislation in 1849 formalised the process of naturalisation. Once naturalised settlers were afforded most of the rights their fellow British colonists enjoyed, including the right to own land.

Prior to 1904, the States were responsible for naturalisation applications. Records for Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania and Western Australia up to this date are held in the relevant State archives.

However, naturalisation records for Victoria and South Australia up to 1903 are in the custody of the National Archives of Australia.

How can I access naturalisation records?

From 1904 naturalisation became a federal government responsibility. Naturalisation records from this date are located in the National Archives of Australia.

Name references to early 20th century naturalisation records may be found in the National Archives Australia's Record Search [Name Search tab > Immigration & Naturalisations]

Queensland

This is a microfilm copy of the records held at Queensland State Archives. The film contains copies of oaths of allegiance, naturalisation certificates, or references to lists of naturalised aliens in the Queensland Government's Votes and Proceedings.Volumes 24 and 25 contain an alphabetic index to the series.

New South Wales

The index includes over 5,500 names and provides details of surname, given name/s, native place, date of certificate, register and page number, AO/SR reel number. Queensland migrants applying for naturalisation prior to 1859 will be found in the NSW records.

New Zealand

Register of persons naturalised in New Zealand to 1948 [microfiche] (MFC 929.393 1995) This register contains surname, forename, date of birth or age, place of birth, stated former nationality, occupation, place of residence, date of naturalisation, file number, certificate of register and register page number.

Indexes arranged by nationality

An index of 165 Dutch settlers naturalised in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria in the 19th century. Details usually include surname, other names, place of origin, ship and year/date of arrival, date of naturalisation and State, occupation and present place of residence.